LUNA spins out multiple new events

Turntable tutorials, pool parties, snow shindigs, set for season

DJ Milton, voted Best DJ for Pique Newsmagazines Best Of Whistler awards, will share the inside spin on turntabling at LUNAs Rocket Lounge, hosted most Wednesdays at the Whistler Youth Centre.

"Its got a great lounge feeling and people who have taken the class with DJ Milton can come in to practice (at future lounge nights)," said Kiran Pal, program director. "(LUNA events are) about fresh nightlife culture."

The newly-created event spins off the LUNA 2005-06 season Wednesday, Nov. 2 from 9 p.m. to midnight at the centre located at MY Millennium Place.

Along with the half-hour tutorial and plenty of time to put Miltons teachings to the test, the Rocket Lounge also includes access to a pool table, movies, and snacks and beverages.

In addition to Rocket Lounge, LUNA (Late Unusual Nighttime Alternatives) has three new programs set for the winter season, including special events scheduled the first week of every month and Snowbound scheduled for the second week of every month.

The first special event begins with a splash at the third annual Moist pool party, Thursday, Nov. 3 from 9 p.m. to midnight at the Meadow Park Recreation Centre.

Bathing beauties can take advantage of the pool, sauna, snacks, massage and, best of all, Westin Resort and Spas fluffy bathrobes  with rubber duckies for company and music from High Grade Sound DJs. Last year more than 150 swimmers and poolside loungers took to the deck, giving Whistlerites, particularly those new to the area, a great opportunity to meet with friends and make new ones.

Snowbound is also another addition to the list of things to do around Whistler with the Thursday-night event aimed to get boarders and skiers both stoked and informed about riding the mountains with ski and snowboard flicks and guest speakers. The informative movie night also includes pies from Four and Twenty and beverages from Monster Energy Drinks.

"Well have guest hosts talk about backcountry safety and things like how to take care of your gear," Pal said. "We want skiers/boarders to be more familiar about what is out there and to become more inspired about their sport."

For the first time, LUNA is organizing bus transportation for select events from Mount Currie and Pemberton to Whistler, thanks to funding from the national crime prevention centre.

Volunteers, ages 18 to 29, are needed to facilitate this years season. Sixteen positions are available. Volunteers will learn about event co-ordination, risk management, public speaking, marketing, sponsorship and fundraising over their 10-month program as they help organize and eventually run their own events. Participants receive a certificate in Community Event Co-ordination on completion of the program.